Job Description
Main Function
- The Financial Controller is responsible for overseeing all financial operations of the hotel, including budgeting, accounting, financial reporting, internal controls, treasury management, and regulatory compliance.
- The role ensures the accuracy and integrity of financial information while supporting strategic decision-making and maintaining strong financial governance.
- The ideal candidate must be analytical, detail-oriented, and highly organized, with strong leadership skills and extensive experience in financial management and reporting.
Role Responsibilities
Financial Planning and Budget Management:
- Lead the preparation of annual budgets, forecasts, and financial projections.
- Monitor budget performance and provide variance analysis with recommendations.
- Support management in strategic planning and financial decision-making.
- Develop financial models to evaluate business performance and new opportunities.
Accounting and Financial Reporting:
- Oversee bookkeeping, general ledger operations, and month-end/year-end closing processes.
- Prepare accurate and timely financial statements in line with accounting standards.
- Ensure compliance with IFRS, GAAP, and local financial regulations.
- Review and approve accounting entries, reconciliations, and financial reports.
- Maintain proper documentation of all financial transactions.
Internal Controls and Compliance:
- Develop and enforce strong internal control systems to safeguard company assets.
- Conduct periodic audits to ensure compliance with financial policies and procedures.
- Identify risk areas and implement corrective and preventive measures.
- Ensure adherence to corporate governance, tax laws, and statutory requirements.
- Liaise with external auditors during annual audits and ensure timely resolution of audit queries.
Cash Flow and Treasury Management:
- Manage daily cash flow, banking operations, and liquidity planning.
- Oversee payments, collections, and bank reconciliations.
- Develop strategies to optimize working capital and reduce financial risk.
- Maintain strong relationships with banks and financial institutions.
Cost Management and Financial Efficiency:
- Monitor and analyze operational costs to identify savings and efficiency opportunities.
- Implement cost-control measures and financial discipline across departments.
- Review procurement processes and ensure value-for-money expenditures.
Taxation and Regulatory Compliance:
- Ensure accurate and timely filing of tax returns (VAT, PAYE, WHT, CIT, etc.).
- Maintain updated knowledge of tax laws and regulatory changes.
- Coordinate tax audits and ensure full compliance with tax authorities.
- Provide guidance on tax planning and regulatory requirements.
Financial Strategy and Business Support:
- Provide financial insights and recommendations to support business growth.
- Evaluate investment proposals, capital projects, and expansion opportunities.
- Track financial KPIs and develop improvement strategies for profitability.
- Support management in pricing decisions, revenue analysis, and market trends.
Leadership and Team Management:
- Lead, mentor, and supervise finance and accounting staff.
- Assign responsibilities, monitor performance, and ensure high-quality output.
- Identify training needs and coordinate capacity-building programs for the finance team.
- Promote a culture of accountability, accuracy, confidentiality, and professionalism.
Competencies/Skills:
- Strong knowledge of accounting principles and financial management.
- Expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
- Excellent leadership and team management abilities.
- High proficiency in financial software, ERP systems, and Microsoft Excel.
- Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and presentation abilities.
- Deep understanding of regulatory compliance, taxation, and audit processes.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
Behavioural Qualities/Other Competences:
- High level of integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
- Strong ethical judgment and accountability.
- Self-motivated, disciplined, and reliable.
- Strategic thinker with a proactive mindset.
- Excellent interpersonal and leadership qualities.
- Strong work ethic and commitment to excellence.
- Ability to adapt to dynamic business environments.
Experience / Qualification
- Bachelor’s Degree or HND in Accounting, Finance, Economics, or related field.
- Professional certification such as ICAN, ACCA, or CPA is required.
- Minimum of 7–10 years of progressive experience in accounting or financial management in a top hotel.
- Experience in corporate finance, budgeting, and internal control systems.
- Prior experience in hospitality is a must.
- Strong familiarity with IFRS, audit processes, and financial reporting standards.